Naomi Watts Reflects on 'Nerve-Wracking' Pressure to Portray Jackie Kennedy in 'Love Story'

Naomi Watts faced nerve-wracking pressure portraying Jackie Kennedy in FX's Love Story, revealing at a For Your Consideration event in Los Angeles on June 2 that the role terrified her yet spurred her to go to great lengths for Ryan Murphy, with whom she has collaborated on The Watcher, Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, and All's Fair in 2025. She even scheduled the project around a planned vacation with husband Billy Crudup, including an Orient Express journey from Venice to Paris. Watts described Jackie’s voice as uniquely challenging, and noted how the ensemble—including Constance Zimmer and Grace Gummer—fit together as a family.

Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette premiered in February and is now streaming on Hulu. Watts recalled the screenings and press events with pride, emphasizing the collaborative, high-energy environment Ryan Murphy fosters and the emotional pull of portraying one of America’s most iconic figures.